6 Types of Clothing That Can Hide Cellulite

The quest to hide cellulite is one challenge that unites many women. The unsightly lumps and dimples that occur most often in the butt, hips, abdomen, and thighs don’t discriminate either; they universally can affect anyone. And, sure, its occurrence is more common among the curvier, but the slimmer gals aren’t immune either.

Cellulite is the bad guest that no one invited to the pool party, but there are some ways that you can make sure that it doesn’t crash that party. First of all, you can often reduce the appearance of the cottage cheese by staying well hydrated and eating nutritious foods. Because cellulite is caused by the distribution of fat cells and deposits under the skin, a proper strength-training and exercise regimen will also work wonders in helping to diminish its occurrence. And, from a purely aesthetic perspective, a good self-tanner will also aid the cause.

However, there are certain types of apparel that can help in a pinch, too, if you need a quick fix. Cellulite doesn’t stand a chance with these six sartorial solutions.

1. Body shapers

Shapewear keeps everything smooth. | iStock.com/ariwasabi

All hail the almighty Spanx — and other body shapers, too. But, Spanx is by far the most popular kid on the block with shorts, bodysuits, camis, slips, and other unmentionables that solve cellulite woes by providing a smoother-than-honey look under almost any type of clothing. This breed of form-fitting underwear has become the go-to way to trim and slim — no cottage cheese thighs allowed.

2. Leggings

Leggings make you look lean and dimple-free. | iStock.com/SanneBerg

If you think leggings are off limits because you have more cellulite than you’d prefer, then we have some good news for you. Not all leggings are created equally, and there are a number of options that don’t show every dimple in the skin. However, you may have to invest a few more dollars in a higher quality pair to ensure the level of fabric thickness and support you need is there. And, as a general rule, it’s always better to go with black or a darker shade for your leggings if you’re trying to achieve maximum coverage potential for cellulite. Lighter hues are less forgiving when a cover-up is the goal.

3. Swimsuits — well, some of them

There are definitely gorgeous suits that offer more coverage. | Tabatha Fireman/Getty Images

You may have a love-hate relationship with summer — solely because it means it’s time to rock the dreaded bathing suit in all its glory. If you’re feeling self-conscious about any cellulite woes, swimwear doesn’t have to be your worst enemy. No, you probably shouldn’t go for an itsy bitsy bikini, but a bikini with boy shorts is a fun (and trendy) way to go that also provides some coverage for your butt and upper thighs. Skirted bathing suits are another option, although it can be a bit more difficult to find one that doesn’t look too mumsy. Look for a sophisticated, solid color with clean lines or a Grecian-inspired draped suit with a closer-fitting wrap skirt for the most modern and sexy interpretation. And, of course, sarongs and bikini wraps are always a good way to simply and effectively cover up the affected areas.

4. Pattern players

Go for bold patterns. | iStock.com/Anetlanda

So, you don’t have to always stick to what some of you may view as basic, or even boring, when you’re playing hide-and-seek with your cellulite. While lighter, solid colors can be tricky, some prints and patterns can be your friend, working in your favor to disguise the dimples. Bold, busy graphics such as geometrics, ikats, and florals can all be a good kind of distraction, diverting attention away from problem areas.

5. Black anything

When it comes to hiding cellulite, black is best not just for leggings, but for pants, skirts, and dresses, too. The color is commonly known to slim and flatter all body types, and as a result, it works wonders in smoothing any unevenness especially in your hips and bum area. If you’re wearing anything that’s remotely bodycon, which is to say anything that fits closely to your figure, you’ll be best served to go black.

6. Pantyhose

You have plenty of options when it comes to pantyhose. | Pixabay

OK, we know what you’re thinking: Pantyhose? No way! But, before you rule out the nylon effect completely, remember that Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, nearly single-handedly brought the nude pantyhose look back into play for many fashionistas. They have both a slimming and smoothing effect, especially those of the control-top variety, which can tone and trim your hips, butt, and legs, whether you’re wearing a mini skirt or a mini dress. Plus, the nude variety has an instant light bronzing effect that evens out skin tone and further disguises cellulite — no self-tanner required.